November 10, 2017

It was a wonderful day yesterday at our very own Gardeners’ Question Time at Central Library, West Bromwich. Alys Fowler (British horticulturist and journalist) and Susie Parr (writer, researcher & amateur beekeeper) lead the panel along with local allotment holders’ Alison and Alan, and Helen, a cottage garden owner. A huge thank you to everyone that came along and also the wonderful Ideal for All who served their tasty pumpkin soup.

This event was brought to you as part of Black Country Allotments, an exhibition about the lives and experiences of plot holders from eight allotments set in the heart of Sandwell. The exhibition will tour to six Sandwell libraries from 26th Sept to 18th Nov 2017.

The afternoon was filled with questions, discussions, tips and tricks and whether you were a veteran plot holder or a complete beginner.. there was something for everyone.

Q. ‘What should I grow as a new allotment holder?’
A. French beans, potatoes, spinach, chard, radishes, sunflowers, salad.

Q. How and when to prune a plum tree?
A. Anything with a stone can be pruned in Summer in leaf after it’s fruited.

“It was lovely to see how wonderful so many people are and what amazing projects are happening on allotments and their communities!”

“Was great to see the diverse ways people look at the same problem and the shared enjoyment obtained.”